In a significant development for Arunachal Pradesh’s proposed mega hydropower plans, Komkar village has expressed support for conducting pre-feasibility studies for the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project. The decision marks an important step in the state government’s efforts to move forward with dialogue and consensus-building on the ambitious project along the Siang river.
Officials said the village-level support reflects growing willingness among local communities to engage in discussions related to the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project, particularly at the preliminary assessment stage. The pre-feasibility studies are intended to evaluate technical, environmental, and social aspects before any final decision is taken.
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Community consent for preliminary assessment
Komkar village’s backing is limited to pre-feasibility studies and does not imply final approval of construction. Local representatives clarified that the consent was given to allow scientific and technical assessments that would help villagers better understand the scope and potential impact of the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project.
Residents stressed the importance of transparency and regular communication during the study process. They stated that informed decision-making requires access to verified data on environmental impact, safety measures, and livelihood concerns.
Officials present during consultations said the government respects the community’s conditional support and will proceed cautiously.
Importance of the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project
The Siang Upper Multipurpose Project is proposed as a strategic infrastructure initiative aimed at power generation, flood moderation, and water management. Located on the Siang river, the project is considered vital for Arunachal Pradesh’s long-term energy security.
Experts say the project could also play a role in regulating water flow and strengthening downstream flood control. However, due to its scale and location, the project has remained sensitive, particularly among river-dependent communities.
Therefore, authorities have emphasised that pre-feasibility studies are a necessary first step to assess viability without committing to construction.
Government’s approach to dialogue and trust-building
The Arunachal Pradesh government has adopted a dialogue-driven approach to address concerns related to the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project. Officials have been engaging with village councils, community elders, and local organisations to explain the purpose of pre-feasibility studies.
According to officials, Komkar village’s support reflects the effectiveness of sustained engagement. The government reiterated that no work beyond surveys and studies will be undertaken without wider consultation and consent.
Authorities also assured that traditional rights, cultural values, and ecological concerns would remain central to the decision-making process.
Environmental and social concerns remain key
Environmental groups and local communities have raised concerns about the potential impact of large infrastructure projects on the Siang river ecosystem. Issues such as displacement, biodiversity loss, and river health continue to dominate discussions.
Villagers from Komkar reportedly sought assurances that the pre-feasibility studies would include detailed environmental and social assessments. They also stressed that findings must be shared publicly and explained in accessible language.
Officials acknowledged these concerns and said that modern assessment methods would be used to minimise environmental risks.
Strategic and developmental significance
Beyond energy generation, the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project is viewed as strategically important. Experts note that large multipurpose projects in border states also carry national significance in terms of water security and regional development.
The government believes that infrastructure development, if executed responsibly, can improve connectivity, create employment, and strengthen disaster preparedness. However, it has maintained that development must not come at the cost of community trust.
Komkar village’s decision is seen as a cautious but positive signal in this direction.
Reactions from stakeholders
Local administrators welcomed the village’s support, calling it a constructive step toward evidence-based decision-making. They said pre-feasibility studies would help clarify misconceptions and provide factual inputs for further discussions.
At the same time, community leaders reiterated that their support should not be misinterpreted as unconditional approval. They emphasised that final consent would depend on study outcomes and future consultations.
Civil society groups have urged the government to maintain transparency throughout the process.
The road ahead
With Komkar village backing pre-feasibility studies, the next phase involves technical surveys and data collection for the Siang Upper Multipurpose Project. Officials said similar consultations will continue with other villages in the region.
The government has assured that no irreversible steps will be taken without broad-based agreement. As discussions continue, the focus remains on balancing development needs with environmental protection and community rights.
The Komkar village decision underscores the importance of dialogue in navigating complex infrastructure projects. It also sets a precedent for participatory engagement in Arunachal Pradesh’s development planning.
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